Myristic Acid
Saturated fatty acid; emollient and soap base. Functional formulation ingredient with no standalone activity on the skin.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
About this ingredient
Myristic Acid is a saturated fatty acid with 14 carbon atoms (C14:0). Found in nutmeg oil, coconut and palm kernel oils. In cosmetics used as a structurant, surfactant, and emulsion component. Mechanism. With alkalis (KOH, NaOH) forms myristates (soaps) – mild surfactants for cleansing formulas. In creams adds texture and density. Where applied. Cleansing foams and gels, cream soaps (for dry-skin patients), creams, foundations. Concentration 1–10%. In Japan in traditional foaming cleansers (SK-II Facial Treatment Cleanser). Evidence base. No topical clinical RCTs – a functional component. CIR confirmed safety. Safety. Comedogenicity 3 of 5 – in acne patients in leave-on formulas causes comedones. In rinse-off formulas the risk is minimal. Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe.
Frequently asked questions
Is Myristic Acid safe during pregnancy?
Myristic Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What is Myristic Acid and what does it do in cosmetics?
Saturated fatty acid; emollient and soap base.
What's the INCI name for Myristic Acid?
The INCI name is Myristic Acid.
See Myristic Acid in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Myristyl Glucoside, Myristyl Myristate, Myrtrimonium Bromide, Neutralized Carbomer, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Sorbitan Olivate, C12-13 Alkyl Lactate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
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